The GMO registry is launching .tokyo, the second (of three) new GeoTLD for Japan, on April 7, 2014, and are scheduled to launch the third (.yokohama) later this year. This is exciting news, as these are among the first ever GeoTLDs to launch.

GEO TLDs are launching to enable anyone with a physical address in a specific geographic location to register domains in that local geographic community. Registering a .tokyo domain enables companies that are doing business in Tokyo to register shorter and more relevant domain names for their business/web site(s).

Phase 1—Trademark Sunrise :: Scheduled to open April 7, 2014 and remain open through June 8, 2014.

Phase 2—Landrush :: Scheduled to open June 9, 2014 and remain open through July 18, 2014.

Phase 3—General Availability :: Scheduled to open July 22, 2014.

It’s important to note that only trademark holders who have received a valid signed mark data (SMD) file issued by the Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH) may apply for an exact match domain name during the Sunrise period for any new gTLD(s). Also, registrations for .nagoya, which has already launched, .tokyo, and .yokohama will be completely open and no local contact or signed individual RRAs are required.